Ali Dieng – Ward 7 Candidate

As a City Councilor I will continue to be a voice for all of Ward 7. Communication from New North End officials is an important part of keeping you informed. If re-elected I would pledge to focus much more on making sure that our neighborhood is informed. I see this campaign as an opportunity to serve my neighbors on an even deeper and more meaningful level by working towards systemic change for the benefit of all. That means meeting people where they are – door knocking, inviting them to people’s homes, and meeting in public regularly.

I am working to increase access to affordable childcare. Early childhood education is essential for the lifelong success of the next generation. We need to look at access, cost and quality of care across the city and we need to ensure that families of all incomes and backgrounds are able to enroll their children in good programs in every neighborhood.

I want to strengthen public transportation to and from our neighborhoods. As the New North End grows it is critical that we be connected across the city, and that means robust transportation options – frequent and affordable public buses, SSTA options, and more.

Many people of all ages sometimes struggle to find affordable housing options in Burlington, and I recognize that affordable housing, for renters and homeowners, for young families and older Vermonters, is critical to our sense of security and quality of life. I will work to keep taxes reasonable while also bringing more housing options north of the beltline, while also working to strengthen our inclusionary zoning and seek increased funding for affordable housing and homeless shelters in the region.

Thank you for electing me last July. It’s been an honor to serve Ward 7. I hope I can count on your continued support.